Recyclable Takeout Food Container Developed

Copyright Shuei Co. Ltd.

Shuei Co. Ltd., a paper container manufacturer in Higashi-Osaka City, announced that it has developed "Hokkaru," Japan's first double-layered paper container for food. Seeking to promote waste reduction, reuse and recycling, the company worked with a non-profit organization to develop these new containers for use as food and beverage trays and for food takeout.

After use, the outer layer (weighing 29.7 grams), made of printable paperboard, can be flattened and recycled with newspapers. The inner layer (2.3 grams), made of a safe, antibacterial and heat- and water-resistant film that stays separate from foodstuffs in the container, can be detached and discarded. Since everything is made of non-toxic materials, there is no environmental impact even after the components are incinerated or landfilled.

In addition to standard boxed meals such as sandwiches or sushi, Hokkaru can be used for meals with more moisture content, like curried rice or Japanese wheat noodle that require heating in a microwave oven. With the waterproof and microwavable features, the company expects the Hokkaru containers to be used widely in catering services and the takeout food industry. The container has already been used at various events organized by local governments and universities as well as in college cafeterias across the country. A growing number of restaurants and food shops has also started to use Hokkaru.



Posted: 2003/12/03 09:14:35 PM
Japanese version